MS Bridge Program

Overview

Looking to change careers from a non-computing related field? You can obtain an MS in Computer Science through our Bridge Program! Our master's Bridge Program is designed for students without a computing background to help them earn an MS in Computer Science in two and a half years. Bridge students begin with an intensive, tailored set of courses that equip them with the foundational skills necessary to excel in our advanced master's-level coursework. 

Bridge Program Coursework

Sample Course Schedule for the First Two Semesters

Credits from COMS 5040, COMS 5041 (4 credits) and 3 credits from any other 5000-level COMS course (except COMS 5010) taken in the first two semesters can be counted to satisfy credit requirements for content-rich courses for MS degree program.

Cost of the Bridge Program

Students in the Bridge Program will be assessed the computer science graduate tuition rate based on their residency classification. You can find out more about residency classifications by visiting the Registrar's website.

International students are required to enroll in a minimum of 9 credits per semester for immigration requirements.

Domestic students can enroll in any number of credits.

Application Process

Access the online application system.

Step 1 – create your account and provide your personal details (e.g., name, contact information, and address).

Step 2 – select your academic area of interest (MS Computer Science) and enter your academic history, exam test scores, and recommender information. Submit your application. No documents are uploaded with the initial application submission.

• Delayed Payment of MS Application Fee: The MS application fee ($65 US Domestic; $100 International) for admitted students will be placed on the first university bill (U-Bill) after enrolling in classes. All other MS applicants (those who are not admitted and those who do not accept the admission offer) are not required to pay an application fee.

Step 3 – return to your application to upload the required documents. When you return to your account, click on the “View my Application(s)” button to access the action items for your application. Clicking on the “Manage” button next to each action item will open a menu where you can provide the required information. Admissions will send you an email if there is an issue with any documentation. The action item status will also change to “Returned.” Please contact us if you have any questions about the required documentation. We will gladly assist you.

Instructions for managing your application documents and recommenders.

Required Documents:

1. Current Resume/CV
2. Unofficial transcripts from ALL universities/colleges attended – Please include the original language and an English translation. Consolidated transcripts are allowed if they show all tests and exams, including retakes. Please include the grading scale for your university/college. World Education Services (WES) and Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) evaluations of international transcripts are accepted starting with Fall 2024 applications. Please also upload your degree statement with your transcripts if you have graduated.
3. Unofficial degree statement(s) – This isn’t required if your degree is still in progress. Please include a copy of your degree statement with your transcripts.
4. (3) Letters of Recommendation (LOR) – the application system will automatically send a recommendation request to the email address you provide for each recommender. Please reach out to csadmissions@iastate.edu with any issues related to the letters of recommendation.
5. Statement of Purpose (SOP) – guidance for writing the SOP 
6. GRE scores - information about the GRE requirement, including waiver criteria.
   • Type your GRE scores into the online application system.
   • Upload a PDF copy of your GRE test taker report, available to you in your ETS account.
   • If selected for admission, send your official GRE scores to Iowa State University. Our institution code is 6306.

Additional required documents for international applicants:

1. English proficiency test results - accepted tests and minimum requirements.
   • Type your scores into the online application system.
   • Upload a PDF copy of your test taker report.
   • Request the test provider to send your official scores to Iowa State University.
2. Passport/immigration card - you can wait to upload this until you receive the admission decision.
3. Financial Support Documents - you can wait to upload this until you receive the admission decision. Please submit a bank statement and/or letter from an official sponsorship agency (including government) showing equivalent to one year’s expenses. If you have any government or other scholarships, please include the letter. Find details about the amount you need to show. This form may be helpful in planning your financial documents.

Fall 2025 Deadlines

We offer Fall or Spring entry; there is no Summer entry. International applicants requiring a new visa are encouraged to apply early.

• M.S. applications will open on September 1, 2024 and close on July 1, 2025.
• M.S. admission decisions will be communicated within 10 business days of final application submission.
• We generally do not offer teaching assistantships to MS students; however, some MS students do find assistantships or on-campus employment once they arrive on campus.

Contact us

Email the computer science graduate admissions team at csadmissions@iastate.edu for individual support as your navigate the application process.

Sign up for a Virtual Visit - these sessions are offered for prospective master's students the last Thursday of every month at 10:00 AM U.S. Central Time. These small group sessions include information about Iowa State University and the Department of Computer Science, academic requirements, career placement, assistantships and internships, and the application process. 

Sign up for a virtual visit